The benefits of infrastructure projects: La Presse speaks to Davendra Dabasia

Sitting down with La Presse in Canada – a major daily newspaper in Quebec – Mace Consult CEO Davendra Dabasia recently built on the announcement to expand in Montréal to support infrastructure projects in the area.

In the interview, Dabasia argues that more focus should be placed on the economic benefits of large infrastructure programmes when discussing how much they cost to deliver.

In Canada, Mace Consult is supporting delivery of Canada's first high-speed rail network between Toronto and Quebec City. It's designed to cater for a growing population and match future demand for faster, more reliable and more sustainable ways to travel between cities. By moving trips off roads and away from airports it will relieve pressure on existing infrastructure and improve connectivity. 
 
Dabasia draws on his experience around the world when it comes to public transport, highlighting that it's only after a project is delivered that people see the real benefits, and emphasising the clear link between their completion and the regeneration of cities. 

Finally, Dabasia identifies four key elements for delivering major projects within budget and on time: defining the scope clearly, being realistic from the start, avoiding starting too early, and ensuring an economic interest for all. 

The interview can be read here.